Obituary of Dawn Marie Guenthner

Dawn Marie Simkin was born to Gavin and Cecelia on June 11, 1954 in Consort, AB. She was welcomed by two older brothers, Robert and John, and later became the big sister to Audrey. She passed away peacefully in Edmonton at the Cross Cancer Hospital on February 4th, 2012 with Ken by her side. Dawn grew up on the family ranch. She attended school in Consort where she exceeded in academics and sports. Her son Jeff was born at this time and was raised as a much-loved member of the Simkin family. Following high school, Dawn attended Red Deer College and the University of Alberta. While studying for an education degree, she was a competitive and feisty basketball player, first for Red Deer College and then for an Edmonton city team that went to Nationals. Sports continued to be a passion for Dawn, especially with the Halkirk Jays fastball team who were provincial champions. A natural teacher, Dawn was well respected in Gadsby, Provost and Consort. Dawn loved music and integrated piano playing into many of her classes. Her love of sports influenced her teaching and she coached and developed many students in athletic endeavours. Dawn obtained a license to drive the bus to ensure that over the years youth had the opportunity to travel for sports. On February 4th, 1984, Dawn married the love of her life, Ken Guenthner. Together they had a happy partnership. They loved their country life in the Sounding Lake area, a place Dawn often referred to as “God’s country.” They were blessed with three children, Tanya, Laurie and Scott. The family worked and played together to build their ranch. She appreciated the land, liked to work, was strong willed and an astute business woman. Dawn loved her community and was proud to call Consort home. Dawn and Ken have been involved in many community events and projects. She has given her time and talent to 4-H, coaching, the Consort School, the Monitor Community Club, homecomings and the Gooseberry Lake Rodeo. Dawn was one of those “go to” people who could organize and implement anything she set her mind to. Dawn and Ken’s life was enriched with the arrival of Jeff and Daphne’s children, Georgia and Gavin. They were the source of endless joy sharing their ranch life which both children love. Dawn is survived by her loving husband Ken; son Jeff (Daphne) Simkin, daughters Tanya and Laurie, son Scott; precious grandchildren Georgia and Gavin Simkin; her mother Cecelia Simkin; brothers Robert (Trudie) and John (Sue); sister Audrey (Gord) Wilkes; father and mother-in-law David and Leta Guenthner; brothers-in-law Gary Guenthner; and Ron (Roxanne) Guenthner; a large extended family and many dear friends. Dawn was predeceased by her father Gavin Simkin in 2001. Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day, Unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear.